### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diarrhḗssō**, represented by `{{G1284}}`, means **to tear asunder:--break, rend**. It is derived from διά and ῥήγνυμι. Appearing **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, this verb describes a forceful, violent tearing or breaking. It is used both symbolically, in the act of rending garments to express intense emotion, and literally, to describe the breaking of physical objects like nets or bonds.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1284}}` is used to mark moments of extreme reaction or stress. The high priest is depicted rending his clothes `{{G2440}}`, `{{G5509}}` upon hearing what he deems to be **blasphemy** `{{G988}}` from Jesus ([[Matthew 26:65]]; [[Mark 14:63]]). Similarly, the **apostles** `{{G652}}` Paul and Barnabas **rend** their clothes `{{G2440}}` in horror when the people of Lystra attempt to worship them [[Acts 14:14]]. The word also describes literal breaking, such as when a fishing net **brake** under the weight of a miraculous catch [[Luke 5:6]] or when a man possessed by an unclean spirit **brake** the bands `{{G1199}}` used to restrain him [[Luke 8:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the objects and contexts associated with this action:
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion**: This word for an outer **garment** or **cloke** is what the high priest rent in [[Matthew 26:65]] and what the apostles rent in [[Acts 14:14]], signifying a public display of distress.
* `{{G5509}}` **chitṓn**: Referring to a **tunic or shirt**, this is the garment the high priest is described as rending in Mark’s account of the trial of Jesus [[Mark 14:63]].
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón**: Meaning a **band** or **shackle**, this is what the demon-possessed man broke apart in [[Luke 8:29]], demonstrating a force that could not be contained by human restraints.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1284}}` carries significant weight, illustrating two distinct types of overwhelming force.
* **Expression of Religious Horror:** Rending garments was a visceral, outward sign of profound grief or indignation. The high priest performs this act to condemn Jesus for alleged **blasphemy** [[Matthew 26:65]], while Paul and Barnabas do so to reject idolatrous worship [[Acts 14:14]].
* **Demonstration of Supernatural Power:** The word is used to show power that transcends the natural order. In [[Luke 5:6]], the breaking net highlights the sheer abundance of the miraculous catch of fish. In [[Luke 8:29]], the breaking of **bands** `{{G1199}}` by the possessed man demonstrates the formidable strength of the unclean spirit that Jesus was about to command.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1284}}` is a powerful verb that conveys violent separation. Whether used to describe the symbolic tearing of a **garment** `{{G2440}}` in a moment of outrage or the literal breaking of a net or chains `{{G1199}}`, it consistently points to a breaking point. It captures moments where human emotion, divine provision, or demonic power becomes too great to be contained, resulting in a physical or symbolic rupture.
TRV